Back row: Ciaran Reidy, General Manager, The Grace, Gemma Jordan, General Manager, Westport Estate, Cathal J Hughes, Director
Middle row: Harry Hughes, Barry O’Connor, Directors, Westport Estate & The Grace, Pat McCann, Non-Executive Director, Westport Estate & The Grace
Front row: Rachel Doyle, Non-Executive Director, Westport Estate, Cathal Hughes and Owen Hughes, Directors, Westport Estate & The Grace, Fiona O’Sullivan, Non-Executive Director, Westport Estate.
Not present: Maire Hughes.

• Ciaran Reidy, former General Manager of The Johnstown Estate, joins as the hotel’s new GM
• Pat McCann, founder and former CEO of Dalata Hotel Group, Ireland’s largest hotel group, also joins the Westport Estate board

21 November 2024, Co. Mayo – Westport Estate is pleased to announce the appointment of Ciaran Reidy as General Manager of The Grace at Westport Estate, the estate’s new flagship hotel set to open in early 2026.

With over two decades of experience managing prestigious properties, Reidy is well-positioned to bring the vision for The Grace at Westport Estate to life, creating a destination that combines a deep sense of connection with exceptional guest experiences.

Reidy has a distinguished background in luxury and heritage hospitality, having led award-winning properties such as The Johnstown Estate and Lough Rynn Castle. His reputation for elevating guest experiences and fostering strong team cultures aligns with Westport Estate’s mission to honour the estate’s history while offering an inviting and inspiring environment. In his role, Reidy will oversee daily operations and lead a dedicated team committed to creating experiences that celebrate the estate’s cultural and natural heritage, where guests can pause, reflect, and reconnect.

“I’m excited to bring this vision to life at The Grace at Westport Estate,” Reidy commented. “We’re dedicated to creating an environment that offers a deeply authentic experience for every guest, inspired by the unique history of Westport Estate and the spirit of the Wild Atlantic Way. Together, we’ll craft a place where connection and renewal are at the heart of every moment.”

Westport Estate also announces Pat McCann, founder and former CEO of Dalata Hotel Group, joins its board as a Non-Executive Director. With over 50 years in the hospitality industry, McCann’s expertise will be instrumental in shaping the strategic direction of Westport Estate. Known for his transformative leadership and dedication to community-focused growth, McCann’s role underscores Westport Estate’s ambition to create a world-class destination.

McCann joins an esteemed group of Non-Executive Directors on the Westport Estate board, including Rachel Doyle, owner of Arboretum and chair of the horticultural division on the Bord Bia board, and Fiona O’Sullivan, an Irish tourism specialist with over 30 years of experience and leadership roles in the Inbound Tourism Operators Association of Ireland and SITE Ireland.

Speaking on joining the board, McCann said: “I’m delighted to join the Westport Estate’s journey to create a place of true connection along the Wild Atlantic Way. Together with the team, our mission is to shape a unique destination that blends warmth and connection, deeply rooted in the rich heritage of Westport.”

Barry O’Connor, CEO of Westport Estate, added: “Bringing Ciaran and Pat on board at this crucial stage supports our ambition for Westport Estate. Their leadership will be pivotal in shaping a premier tourist destination that pays homage to our history while delivering an unforgettable guest experience along the Wild Atlantic Way”

Cathal Hughes, Chairman of the Westport Estate board, said: “At this transformative moment for Westport Estate, Ciaran and Pat’s insights will play a vital role in realising our vision. Their leadership and experience will be crucial as we shape a destination that combines our historic legacy with fresh, inspiring visitor experiences.”

The Grace at Westport Estate celebrates the cultural and historical significance of the estate, drawing inspiration from Grace O’Malley, the legendary Pirate Queen, and Grace Kelly, a Hollywood icon linked to the Hughes family, owners of Westport Estate. Designed by Taylor McCarney and constructed by Stewart Construction, The Grace at Westport Estate will open in early 2026. The hotel is part of the Westport Estate’s wider mission to transform the area into a premier tourist destination on the West of Ireland. Filled with cultural, educational and immersive experiences as part of Westport Estate’s “Awaken Your Wild” project, the development of the estate is underway following full planning permission granted last month.